Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Syringa x chinensis 'Saugeana'
Saugeana Lilac
- Family
- Oleaceae
- Height
- 8 to 12 ft
- Width
- 6 to 10 ft
- Flower color
- Palelilac-purple, fragrant flower clusters
- Foliage color
- Medium green, heart-shaped leaves
- Bloom time
- Late spring
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low to moderate; prune immediately after flowering to shape and remove spent clusters
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 3 to 7
- Wildlife
- Fragrant blooms attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
About this plant
Syringa x chinensis 'Saugeana' is a deciduous lilac selected for airy, arching branches and abundant, sweetly fragrant flower panicles. Buds open in mid to late spring, typically May, in lilac to pinkish-purple tones that read deeper at first and soften as the florets expand. Fresh green foliage and a graceful, fountain-like outline keep it attractive after bloom.
The Chinese (Rouen) lilac originated in France in the late 1700's as a hybrid involving common lilac and Persian lilac, and 'Saugeana' is an early-named form associated with that lineage. After flowering, small capsules may follow, while the plant's fine twigging and profuse bloom display suit borders, informal hedges, and garden edges.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Hedging & Privacy · Fragrant Gardens · Pollinator Gardens
Companion plants
Larkspur · Windflower · Hardy mum · Fountain grass · Candytuft · Columbine
Design tip
Bring a looser character to structured garden areas with ‘Saugeana’s’ airy, fountain-like form. Its fine branching and arching flower panicles soften the strong lines of walls, fences, and paved areas while still providing enough height to anchor the planting.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens.
